The sun was shining, and the bells were ringing, to welcome guests as they arrived at the Civic Service held in St John the Baptist Church on Sunday 2 March 2025 to celebrate the community of Axbridge.
The Mayoral Party entered the church, with the Mayor, Graham Page, the Deputy Lieutenant of Somerset, Denis Burn MBE and the High Sheriff of Somerset, Rob Beckley QPM, led by the Town Crier, Nigel Scott and accompanied by Andres Bolado, the Town Bailiff.
Whilst Robert Anderson, the organist, played the processional hymn, Reverend Alistair Forster welcomed all present with an opening prayer, with Reverend Sue Hoskins reading the Homily. The entertainment was outstanding. Fairlands Middle School Brass Ensemble was incredible, playing Brass Breakout “A suite in Six Parts by David Frost, followed by fabulous music from the Axbridge Street Band, with Axbridge Singers beautifully bringing the music to a close with Stand my Me (Ben E. King arr. Machuff) and Make your Own Kind of Music (Cass Elliott arr. Wendy Sergeant).
The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of an awards. A civic award was presented to Ric Canham, by the Deputy Lieutenant of Somerset, for his outstanding contribution to the community from his work with Axbridge District Rotary Club, Axbridge Good Neighbours Scheme and the Town Trust to name but a few. A community award was then presented to the current managers and volunteers of Axbridge Saxons and Axbridge United football clubs, by the High Sheriff of Somerset, in recognition of all the hard work and dedication that had gone into creating the football clubs we have today. In accepting the award, on behalf of the footballers, Nigel Scott played a recording from professional footballer, Will Henry, whose career had begun playing football in Axbridge – a testimony to the friendship, team work and achievements that football can offer.
Mayors and other civic guests from across Somerset turned out to support the award winners along with residents and representatives from local groups, with Rebecca Faith Photography capturing key moments in the day.
The service was followed by tea and cake in the Town Hall, with homemade cake kindly donated by members of the community. The Cheddar Guides and Senior Rangers, led by Bev Davies, worked tirelessly welcoming guests and serving the refreshments – which were enjoyed by all.
It was a lovely community occasion, reflecting the full and vibrant community spirit in Axbridge, and our thanks go to the award winners and all involved.
